Starting on September 8, 2011, Northwestern University Library will implement a visitor management system. The new system will help the library better monitor building access, streamline visitor check-in, and provide a safer and more secure environment for all library patrons.

Under the new system, all Northwestern patrons, including students, faculty, and staff, will be required to use their WildCARD or NU affiliate ID to enter the library at all times. All other patrons will need to register in order to enter the library by showing one of the following forms of photo identification: driver’s license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. Registered patrons will be given a temporary pass which they will use to enter the building and which will expire at the end of the day’s public hours.

The library is making this change in policy to address security and safety concerns raised by the Associated Student Government and University Police. Visitor management systems are becoming more common in higher education. The system has been deployed in several buildings on campus including the buildings of the Feinberg School of Medicine.